a sociological survey of Catholic Education is constructive, timely and none the worse for being ambitious. Let not the achievements to date of their predecessors be under-estimated. Combined efforts of Catholic clergy, educationists and laity have accomplished not only the acceptance of clause 76 in the Education Act of 1944, but the deep recognition at the highest academic and educational levels, that, despite faults and flaws, we have a real contribution to make to the ordering of life in Britain. A "Christian Case" we certainly have, but how to maintain it as such under the agreed syllabus, would certainly meet with divergent views. Parents, though eager, are not yet sufficiently integrated into the Council's new approach to the teaching of religion, to cope with what it implies for them.
As an educationist engaged for the last five years. (in a voluntary capacity) into research into the very information sought, and still actively concerned, I would say that, with notable exceptions, support from sociological students is very difficult to get. In particular the undergraduates appealed to in this field, are the most reluctant to part with simple information.
Elizabeth A. Weldon London S.W.4.
Sir,—The proposals by the Union of Catholic Students for the organisation of councils of bishops, clergy and laymen elected by the congregation raises a question. Could not a better method of electing laymen be found than by the congregation?
Experience of Anglican parochial church councils and similar organisations suggests that congregational election tends to result in a kind of favouritism, some groups of laity joining in nominating and voting for particular friends or favourites. regardless of whether they are really the most competent or suitable people to have an influential interest in parish and Church affairs.
There is also a tendency to re-elect automatically those who have previously served on the council.
(Miss) Eleanor Laval St. Leonards-on-Sca.